The use of nanotechnology in medicine has taken off in recent years, and while many methods are still in the visionary or testing phase, this exciting field of science and medicine is well on its way to transforming the way we identify and treat damage/disease in the human body.

Simply put, nanotechnology in medicine (sometimes referred to as nanomedicine) involves the use of nanoparticles and manufactured nano-robots to repair cells. Some ways that nanomedicine is applied (or is being researched) include:

• Diagnostic techniques – Scientists are beginning to develop certain nanoparticles that can attach themselves to cells and diagnose serious diseases. This will hopefully lead to early detection of cancer cells in the bloodstream and early kidney failure detection.

• Antibacterial treatments – Using nanoparticles and infrared light, a method is being developed to kill bacteria and treat antibiotic–resistant infections.

• Drug delivery – One very exciting development of nanotechnology that is being researched is the method of engaging nanoparticles to deliver drugs (or other substances) to specific types of cells, like cancer cells for example. The nanoparticles are attracted to damaged cells, which allows exact treatment of those cells. This is a wonderful development, as it reduces damage to healthy cells in the body and allows for earlier detection of disease.

• Wound treatment – Methods of treating wounds are being researched every day – from a bandage that emits electrical pulses (using nanotechnology) to a method of programming nano-bots to repair cells.

Do you know any exciting developments in nanotechnology? Share them in the comments!